Faderfader

Faderfader is a term used in audio production to describe a mechanism or technique that manages fade transitions between two audio signals. It can refer to a hardware crossfader, a software automation feature, or a dedicated plugin designed to blend two sources by progressively increasing one signal while decreasing the other. The term is informal and not widely standardized.

In practice, a faderfader exposes controls for selection of source pairs, crossfade duration, fade curves, and input/output levels. It may offer linear, exponential, or logarithmic crossfade curves, and can be driven by automation data, MIDI control, or real-time fader movement. Implementations can be in mixing consoles, DAWs (digital audio workstations), or standalone devices.

Applications include live sound mixing during performances, studio mixing to ensure smooth transitions between tracks, and film or video post-production to blend dialogue, music, and effects. It is related to but distinct from the standard crossfader on DJ mixers, and from general fade controls in DAWs.

Etymology and usage: The term faderfader is a reduplication of fader, emphasizing the double-fade functionality. Because it is not a formal industry term, its meaning varies by context. Many practitioners simply use crossfader or fade automation to describe the same ideas.